Drive launched to boost plastic recycling, cut waste

A major new initiative to tackle plastic pollution in Barbados launched on Monday, with the island’s leading beverage company joining forces with a recycler and the government to roll out a nationwide plastic bottle collection and recycling scheme.

Speaking at Queen’s Park at the launch of the Every Bottle Back initiative spearheaded by the Barbados Bottling Company (BBC), in partnership with B’s Recycling, Clifford Gooding-Edghill, BBC group marketing manager, said the company was proud to step into a leadership role on the issue of plastic waste, despite collection and recycling not being its core business.

“We recognise the urgency of collaborating, investing, and taking action in response to the generational impact of waste on the ecosystem,” he said.

Gooding-Edghill explained that the initiative aims to support environmental sustainability through the development of a comprehensive reuse system—repurposing plastic waste into new bottles and other essential products.

“Our vision includes evaluating, learning, adopting the best methods and systems for plastic recycling and reusing in Barbados, with the ultimate goal of sharing these insights with others as needed. We are dedicated to developing a comprehensive user system that repurposes plastic bottles into new bottles or other essential products, thus contributing to the national agenda for environmental sustainability,” he said.

Gooding-Edghill noted that the company has a longstanding history in environmental innovation, explaining that decades ago, it began using plastic bottles to create durable roofing tiles—an example of how repurposed materials can support climate resilience in construction.

Under the new initiative, 100 eco-bins will be deployed across the island at strategic locations to encourage both residents and tourists to responsibly dispose of plastic bottles and caps. The programme will also be supported by a public education and outreach campaign across schools, social media platforms, and community spaces.

“This initiative speaks to the broader responsibility of businesses, NGOs, and the government to tackle the widespread global issue. It is my hope that one day the knowledge and partnerships formed through this project and similar endeavours will eventually build bridges to new business enterprises and lead to a more eco-friendly and vibrant environment for the country,” he said.

Minister of Environment and National Beautification Adrian Forde welcomed the initiative as part of government’s broader effort to transition Barbados towards a circular economy.

“Government is happy to be an equal partner in a trade that marries itself perfectly with our integrated solid waste management thrust,” he told the gathering, noting that a new policy has been approved and legislation is being finalised to address the area.

He stressed the importance of ensuring that the transition to a circular economy is inclusive and equitable. (SB)